When Christ was laboring beneath the heavy cross, He faltered, and a maiden, St. Veronica, rushed forward to wipe the perspiration from His brow. The impress of His face was found upon her napkin. Such is the story of St. Veronica, and because the markings of some species of Veronica resemble a face, this flower was named after St. Veronica. […]

How to grow Gentiana Gentiana (jen-te-a-na) Named after Gentius, King of Illyria who first used the plant medicinally (Gentianaceae). Gentian. A large genus of hardy perennials. Most of those in cultivation are dwarf plants suitable for the rock garden, but a few are more at home in the border. Some of them are lime-haters. Species cultivated G. acaulis (now considered […]

How to Grow Nepeta Nepeta (nep-ee-ta) An early Latin name, probably taken from an Italian place name Nepi (Labiatae). A genus of about 150 species of hardy herbaceous perennials and annuals, a few of which are grown partly for their aromatic foliage. Some were once used for their remedial properties. One, grown commonly under the name of N. mussinii, often […]

How to grow Lilacs When it’s lilac-blooming time again this year from early May until end of June-will your garden be replete with their white, violet, pink, blue; and purple flowers? Certainly they are among the most popular of all flowering shrubs, and nurserymen have over 250 named varieties to offer for your planting. Perhaps you’re holding back just because of […]

Origin doubtful, possibly named after St Veronica (Scrophulariaceae). Speedwell. A genus of some 300 species ‘ of hardy perennials, annuals and sub-shrubs, mainly from northern temperate regions. Those described are hardy perennials, their flowers often borne in spikes. Dwarf kinds are suitable for the rock garden. Species cultivated V. agrestis, procumbent speedwell, prostrate, flowers pink, annual weed, Europe including Britain. […]